Voices of NAEYC: Highlights from the 2024 Annual Conference
Release Date: 11/16/2024
Dig In: Grow Deep Roots with Nature-Based Learning
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Lea Ann Christenson and Jenny James, coauthors of Dig In: Outdoor STEM Learning for Young Children. Together, they make the case that outdoor education isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. Lea Ann and Jenny share how nature-based learning supports whole-child development, fosters deeper engagement, and offers rich, differentiated opportunities for every type of learner. Drawing on their own experiences as an early childhood professor and a preschool director, they describe the inspiration behind their book, the research that grounds it, and the practical...
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Beyond the Classroom: The Power of Outdoor Education
Early Childhood Chapters
Episode Summary: In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we welcome Dr. Rachel Larimore, an expert in nature-based early childhood education. Dr. Larimore shares her insights on why outdoor learning is essential for young children, how educators and caregivers can integrate nature into daily routines, and the long-term benefits of connecting children with the natural world. Key Topics Discussed: The definition of nature-based early childhood education and how it differs from traditional approaches. The benefits of outdoor learning, including cognitive, social-emotional, and physical...
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Pushing Past Conflict With Colleagues: Navigating Tough Conversations in Early Childhood Settings
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we welcome Dr. Angela Searcy for a deep dive into navigating difficult conversations in early childhood education. Following her recent EdWeb webinar, Pushing Past Conflicts With Adults: Navigating Uncomfortable Conversations in Early Childhood, Dr. Searcy joins the podcast to address lingering questions and expand on key strategies for managing challenging discussions with administrators, colleagues, and parents. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ How to communicate effectively with administrators who may not be receptive to new ideas....
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Do It Scared: How Educators Can Foster True Equity
Early Childhood Chapters
In this thought-provoking episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with Dr. Tameka Ardrey and Dr. Ebonyse Mead, co-authors of , along with Gryphon House President Dr. Rebecca Berlin. Together, they delve into the challenges and opportunities of fostering equity in early childhood education, particularly in today’s complex political climate. The conversation explores the distinction between equity and equality, the importance of culturally responsive teaching, and how discipline policies disproportionately impact marginalized children. Dr. Mead and Dr. Ardrey offer actionable...
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Reclaiming Childhood: Why Play Matters in Early Education
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with early childhood expert, author, and speaker to explore the importance of play-based learning and why reclaiming childhood is more urgent than ever. Kathy shares insights from her decades of experience working with young children, writing books, and developing curricula that prioritize sensory-rich, hands-on experiences. She discusses the dangers of pushing academic expectations too early, how play supports brain development, social-emotional skills, and creativity, and what parents and educators can do to foster a true love of...
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Rediscovering Joy: Self-Care Strategies for Early Childhood Professionals
Early Childhood Chapters
Self-care is more than just bubble baths and relaxation—it’s about reconnecting with the joy that first brought you to your work. In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we’re joined by Dr. Teresa Byington, author of , to explore how educators and leaders can cultivate joy in their work and create positive, uplifting environments for themselves and their teams. Dr. Byington shares practical strategies for bringing joy into leadership, avoiding burnout, and building a culture that inspires both educators and children. From simple mindset shifts to actionable techniques like "joy...
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Child Care as Infrastructure: The Key to a Thriving Economy
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, host Emily Garman sits down with Dr. Sarah Vanover, an early childhood education expert and the author of and . Dr. Vanover delves into the systemic challenges facing the child care industry in the United States, from the economic pressures on providers to the difficulties families face in accessing high-quality, affordable care. Dr. Vanover explains why child care is not just a family issue—it’s a cornerstone of our economy. They discuss the fragile ecosystem that child care programs operate within, including how rising costs, low wages, and...
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Tiny Hands, Big Skills: Fine Motor Foundations for Early Childhood
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with Keriann Wilmot, an occupational therapist, author, and toy expert affectionately known as "The Toy Queen." Keriann shares her insights on the importance of fine motor development in young children and offers practical advice for parents, educators, and caregivers. The conversation dives into Keriann's book, (published by ), exploring the role of toys, play-based learning, and sensory activities in fostering foundational motor skills. The episode also addresses the impact of increased screen time on childhood development, how...
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Body Safety for Young Children: Empowering Teachers and Caregivers
Early Childhood Chapters
In this powerful episode of Early Childhood Chapters, host Emily Garman sits down with Kimberly King, a certified sexual abuse prevention educator, teacher, and author of Body Safety for Young Children: Empowering Caring Adults. Kimberly shares actionable strategies for teaching body safety in an age-appropriate, empowering way, starting as early as toddlerhood. We discuss the importance of body autonomy, addressing myths and misconceptions, and creating a comprehensive body safety plan for families and classrooms. This episode is packed with practical tips and resources to help parents,...
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Messy Hands, Growing Minds: MaryAnn Faubion Kohl on Process Art in Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode, Emily interviews MaryAnn Faubion Kohl, a trailblazer in early childhood art education and an advocate for process art. With over 20 books published and decades of experience, MaryAnn shares her passion for empowering children to explore and create without fear of judgment or comparison. From her groundbreaking 1985 book Scribble Art to her continued advocacy for open-ended creativity, MaryAnn discusses the importance of honoring children’s self-expression and the lifelong skills they develop through process art.
info_outlineWelcome to a special episode of Early Childhood Chapters, brought to you by Gryphon House Books. This week, we take you to the 98th Annual NAEYC Conference, the largest gathering of early childhood education professionals in the United States. Hosted in Anaheim, this year’s conference brought together educators, authors, and passionate advocates for young children from across the world.
In this episode, we sit down with Gryphon House authors and attendees to explore how their books have inspired careers in early childhood education. Hear moving stories from educators whose lives and teaching practices were transformed by Gryphon House books and meaningful conversations with authors whose work continues to shape the field. This episode is a celebration of the lasting impact of books, mentors, and community connections.